Odisha Government Launches Ambitious Marine Biotechnology Research Corridor
In an initiative reminiscent of the mythological 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the ocean), the Odisha government has embarked on a groundbreaking scientific endeavor to comprehensively study the state's marine ecosystem. This five-year project, implemented through the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor platform, aims to conduct an extensive analysis of coastal flora, fauna, microorganisms, and other bioresources along the 574-kilometer coastline.
Multi-Institutional Collaboration for Marine Exploration
Six prominent Odisha-based institutes have joined forces for this ambitious project: National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, Institute of Life Sciences Bhubaneswar, Fakir Mohan University in Balasore, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Berhampur, and Berhampur University. According to Chithra Arumugam, Additional Chief Secretary (Science and Technology), these institutions will work collaboratively to position Odisha prominently on the marine research map for both economic development and knowledge advancement.
"We conducted numerous consultations before finalizing agreements with these institutes to proceed with the project," Arumugam stated, emphasizing the thorough planning behind this initiative.
Comprehensive Coastal Mapping and Specialized Research
The project encompasses several specialized research components:
- IIT Bhubaneswar will undertake comprehensive mapping of the entire Odisha coastline using advanced technologies including satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and drone technology equipped with specialized sensors. This mapping will identify bioresource availability and monitor pollution levels along the coastal regions.
- Fakir Mohan University will establish a dedicated research center focusing on horseshoe crabs, particularly abundant along the Balasore and Bhadrak coasts. Researchers will investigate these blue-blooded marine arthropods for potential discovery of novel molecules or proteins with medicinal or industrial applications.
- Berhampur University will concentrate on marine algae, seaweed, seagrass, and marine fish studies. Additionally, the university will develop a scientific scuba diving training center to facilitate underwater exploration and research.
- NIT Rourkela will search for high-potential marine microorganisms that could yield new enzymes, antibiotics, and antioxidants. The institute will also work on creating specialized synthetic media to culture extremophilic marine microorganisms in laboratory settings.
- IISER Berhampur will conduct detailed chemical and structural profiling of any novel bioactive compounds discovered from various marine bioresources.
- Institute of Life Sciences Bhubaneswar will study genome sequences of marine bioresources and establish a state-of-the-art marine microbial biorepository, the first facility of its kind in Odisha.
Project Implementation and Expected Outcomes
The project will operate on a hub-and-spoke model with multiple partners and mentors. Sashi Kanta Dash, Deputy Director of Biotechnology, explained that the initiative will be closely monitored and guided by a team of renowned marine biotechnologists from across India.
"The project will lead to the establishment of at least six centers of excellence focusing on different aspects of marine biotechnology," Dash noted. "It will facilitate the translation of research activities into practical products for societal benefit."
Key expected outcomes include:
- Publication of a comprehensive marine bioresources atlas with genetic footprint documentation
- Establishment of a biorepository for potential marine microorganisms
- Discovery of novel bioactive compounds from marine sources
- Commercial translation of research findings through startups and industry partnerships
- Generation of high-quality research articles, patents, and commercial products
- Training opportunities for PhD students in marine biotechnology research
The National Institute of Ocean Technology in Chennai will serve as a knowledge partner for the project, adding further expertise and value to this comprehensive marine research initiative. This collaborative effort represents a significant step toward harnessing Odisha's marine resources for scientific advancement and economic development.
